After a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, it can be difficult to think beyond the day to day. But taking steps now can help you prepare for a smoother tomorrow. Here are five ways you can plan for the future: Learn more about planning for the future after a dementia diagnosis. The post Five Ways to Prepare After a Dementia Diagnosis appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Take Care of Your Cognitive Health DFA Communities Semi-Annual Sur...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The post Oak Park Library Hosting Caregiver Support Event, Sept. 10 appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Alzheimer’s Association Hosts Free Alzheimer’s Research Webinar, May 19 Tips for Exercising Outdoors Caring for a Person with a Frontotemporal Disorder| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The brain controls many aspects of thinking, such as remembering, planning and organizing, making decisions, and more. As a person gets older, changes occur in all parts of the body, including the brain. Some age-related brain changes include: These changes in the brain can affect mental function, even in healthy older people. For example, some older […] The post How Does the Brain Change As You Age? appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Alzheimer’s and H...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Gail’s family and friends always warned her that your vision changes as you age, but she didn’t really believe them. All too often, while her mother struggled to read the menu in a dimly lit restaurant, fishing through a bag for her trusted pair of readers, Gail would laugh and roll her eyes. After all, […] The post Aging and Eye Health appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Aging and Mobility: Part One How Volunteering Benefits Your Health Aging and Mobi...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
What motivates someone to take part in Alzheimer’s research, not just for themselves, but for someone they love? For some caregivers, participating in clinical research is a way to support their loved one, while also helping others in the future. However, many caregivers find that participating in clinical research has brought them support, connections, and […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As you age, you may notice your body’s reaction to alcohol is different, and you may feel alcohol’s effects more strongly without increasing how much you drink. In addition, you might drink less or stop drinking altogether due to medication or certain health problems. Some people may develop a harmful dependence on alcohol later in […] The post What are the Effects of Alcohol as We Age? appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Mental Health America Releas...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Although dementia is often associated with getting older, it is not a normal part of aging. Dementia is caused by changes in the brain that affect memory, thinking, and behavior. While most people are familiar with Alzheimer’s disease, other forms of dementia also exist. Understanding the different types of dementia can help a person with […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Research shows that physical activity reduces the risk of health conditions that can contribute to age-related cognitive decline and may help delay or slow it. In people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, physical activity may improve some aspects of cognition. It can also help them feel better, maintain a healthy weight, and have regular […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, some people are able to keep driving. But as memory and decision-making skills get worse, at some point it will no longer be safe to be behind the wheel. It’s important to start thinking about when a person should give up driving. By planning in advance, […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
It’s common for caregivers to have difficulty tending to their own health and well-being. Taking time to lower your stress and boost your mood can make you a better caregiver. You don’t have to do everything all at once, especially if the thought of self-care seems exhausting. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, try these tips: Remember […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As you get older, you may notice driving becoming more difficult for yourself or your loved ones. Changes in health, vision, and certain medical conditions or injuries may also impact a person’s driving skills. However, there are things you can do to help you stay on the road and make safe choices about driving. Tips […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Many older adults want to stay in their own homes and continue to live independently as they age. However, more than one in four people aged 65 or older fall each year, often causing broken bones or long-term hospital stays. The good news is that there are things you can do to help reduce your […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The Age Guide Annual Aging Summit is a platform to address the challenges and opportunities of aging. The 2025 theme is: Mind Matters: A Lifespan Approach to Brain Health. Among event presenters are ICRN’s Dr. Raj Shah, Dr. Darby Morhardt and Susan Frick, MSW, LSW. Click on the registration link below for more event information, […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Living with dementia presents unique challenges, such as keeping the person safe both in and outside of their home. However, there are things you can do to help. Safety tips for people with dementia include: Find more tips for people with dementia. Related posts: Tips for Living Alone With Dementia RADC Let’s Talk Series Presents: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Caregiving comes with many responsibilities, and keeping track of tasks can be stressful. NIA’s caregiver worksheets can help you coordinate care and stay on top of important details like medications and medical documents for family members or friends who need help with daily living. Here are a few worksheets to help support your caregiving needs: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Brain health refers to how well a person’s brain functions across several different areas. While brain health can be affected by age-related changes in the brain, including injuries, mood disorders, and diseases such as Alzheimer’s and related dementias, research suggests there are things you can do to help maintain your brain health. Some aspects of […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Aerobic physical activity, sometimes referred to as endurance or cardio, involves moving the body’s large muscles for extended periods. Aerobic exercises require the lungs to move more air and the heart to pump more blood and deliver it to the working muscles, increasing your breathing and heart rate. Regular aerobic exercise, even light-intensity movement, can […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Hot weather can be uncomfortable and dangerous, especially for older adults. Heat-related illnesses, like hyperthermia, can come on quickly and become serious. However, there are warning signs to watch for and simple ways to keep your loved one safe when temperatures rise. View the following infographic to learn tips on staying safe in hot weather. Related […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
It’s normal for the brain to lose neurons as we age. But for people with dementia, there is a much greater loss. Neurons stop working, lose connections with other brain cells, and eventually die, leading to symptoms that start gradually and worsen over time. View this infographic to learn about four types of dementia, how they […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Extreme heat is not safe for anyone, but it is particularly dangerous for older adults. Hotter days can make it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature. Older adults tend to not adjust as well as others to sudden temperature changes.However, there are things you can do to help you stay safe and lower […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Mark your calendars for the “Golden Years, Golden Minds” Brain Health Summit on September 20 from 10a.m. to 1p.m. The event will be held at the Kroc Center Chicago. Find more information below! Related posts: Did You Know that Sleep is Good for Your Brain? ¿Sabías que dormir es bueno para tu cerebro? What Do […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Explore communities leading the way in dementia-friendly initiativesand see which ones are near you. Explore communities leading the way in dementia-friendly initiativesand see which ones are near you. News| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Working with doctors and other healthcare professionals can be an important part of being a caregiver. Some things caregivers may find especially helpful to discuss are: what to expect in the future, sources of information and support, community services, and ways they can maintain their own well-being. If you go with the person you care […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As dementia symptoms worsen over time, even simple, everyday activities can become difficult. But there are ways to manage these changes and make daily tasks easier. Here are a few tips to consider early on and as the disease progresses: Find more tips for everyday tasks for a person with dementia. Related posts: Long-Distance Caregiving Caring […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
People with dementia need more care as their symptoms get worse over time. Problems with memory, thinking, and behavior often present challenges for people with dementia, along with their family members and caregivers. There are support systems, resources, and services available to help people in any stage of the disease. This type of help can […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As people age, they are more likely to experience fall-related health issues. If an older adult falls and breaks a bone, it could lead to more serious problems, such as a hospital visit or disability. Many falls are preventable. Use this infographic to learn six tips to help prevent falls. Related posts: ICRN Meeting Agenda and […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Many people find that caregiving provides a sense of fulfillment and that they like feeling useful and needed. But the ongoing demands of taking care of someone else can strain even the most resilient person. That’s why it’s so important for you to take care of yourself. Related posts: Managing Sleep Problems in People with […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As you age, you may have concerns about the increased risk of dementia. You may have questions, too. Are there steps I can take to prevent it? Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk? There are currently no approaches that have been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. However, as […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
A nutritious diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, get the nutrients you need, and lower your risk of certain chronic diseases. Use these tips to plan healthy and delicious meals: Find more tips for healthy meal planning. Related posts: 10 Tips for Choosing Healthy Meals as you Age Add Key Vitamins to Your […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
NOTE: This article is a continuation of Traveling With a Person With Dementia: Part 1. Now that it has been decided that traveling is a worthwhile and realistic decision, and you have begun the necessary planning and preparation stages, you may have further questions about types of travel and available resources. Once a location has […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
In addition to fresh air and sunshine, traveling offers a variety of experiences—sightseeing, dining out, and enhanced physical activity—which can provide important cognitive, sensory, and social stimulation. A break from the routine doesn’t have to equal chaos; when planned carefully, traveling can be a restful and reinvigorating experience. For someone with Alzheimer’s or a related […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Have you ever left your doctor’s office realizing you forgot to ask an important question? Or were you frustrated because you didn’t fully understand the doctor’s instructions? Being able to talk with your doctor is important, especially if you have health problems or concerns. Check out NIA’s video to learn 5 ways to make the most […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Many people wonder if Alzheimer’s disease runs in their family, and how their genes may play a role. Understanding the role genes play in Alzheimer’s and related dementias is key to finding effective methods of prevention and treatment. Watch this video to learn more about the role of genetics in Alzheimer’s. Related posts: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The nervous system receives and processes information about the world around us to help us react to situations, communicate, and keep our bodies safe and healthy. Much of this information comes through the sensory organs which the brain processes as sight, sound, smell, taste, or touch – our five senses. Sensory stimulation is the activation […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Who we are We are the Illinois Cognitive Resources Network (ICRN). The ICRN was created in 2012 to develop a state-based model to improve interactions among the aging network, the disability network, the public health network, state Alzheimer’s Association chapters and state Alzheimer’s Disease Assistance Centers. The overall goal is to help Illinois residents maintain […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Depression is common among older adults, but it isn’t a normal part of aging. It can affect how you feel, think, and act. While dealing with depression can be difficult, you don’t need to tackle it alone. That’s why it’s important to seek support from family, friends, and health care professionals early on. View this […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Alzheimer’s disease slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out daily tasks. These changes can affect someone’s behavior. It’s important to remember that the disease is responsible for these changes, not the person. Watch this video to learn six tips to help manage behavior changes in people with Alzheimer’s. Related […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
After being diagnosed with dementia, you may find it challenging to think beyond the day to day. However, there are ways you can plan ahead and prepare for a smoother tomorrow. Some examples include: Find more tips for planning after a dementia diagnosis. Related posts: NIA Announces a Summer Virtual Meeting Series to Engage the […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Listen as the Illinois Academy of Family Physician’s Brain Trust Podcast engages caregivers in candid conversations about their experience with diagnosis management and caring for their loved ones. All episodes are free and accessible to the public and are funded by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Episode 19: The Brain Trust Caregiver Mini-Series: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Research shows that the benefits of exercise go beyond just physical well-being. Exercise can help increase your energy, improve sleep, and reduce feelings of stress. Watch this video to learn how physical activity can help support your emotional and mental health. Related posts: Combating Racial Inequality in Aging Research MHA Webinar: How To Support Your Healthcare […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Mealtimes can be challenging for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. However, creating a routine with familiar foods, a consistent time and setting, and pleasant conversation, are a few ways to make mealtimes easier. View this infographic for tips to simplify mealtimes for a person with Alzheimer’s. Related posts: What Can a Caregiver Really Do […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
